James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake Recipe

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is an indulgent dessert that is both decadent and surprisingly easy to make. This British-inspired cake takes advantage of the unique combination of cola and chocolate to create a rich, moist texture that’s full of flavor. What makes this cake truly special is the use of cola – the fizzy beverage adds an unexpected depth to the flavor profile, making the cake delightfully soft and slightly tangy.

This is not your average chocolate cake!

The combination of the sweetness from the cola and the bitterness from the cocoa creates a well-balanced, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

The cake has become a favorite among home bakers and food enthusiasts alike, as it doesn’t require a ton of fancy ingredients or equipment, but it delivers a truly special dessert. Topped with a simple yet effective chocolate ganache or icing, James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to birthdays or even as a weekend treat.

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Cake

• 250 ml cola (regular, not diet)
• 250 g unsalted butter
• 75 g cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 200 g plain flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 200 g caster sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 120 ml buttermilk

For The Icing

• 150 g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
• 150 ml double cream
• 50 g unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful cake with a silky, glossy icing. The cola is a star player in this recipe, acting as the secret ingredient to give the cake its moist texture and extra flavor.

Equipment Needed

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake requires minimal equipment, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or whisk: For mixing the batter to a smooth consistency.
• Sifter: To sift dry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour to ensure there are no lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success in baking.
• Cake tin: A round 20cm (8-inch) cake tin works best.
• Parchment paper: To line the cake tin and ensure an easy release after baking.
• Saucepan: For melting the chocolate and cream together for the icing.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cake properly before icing.

With these basic tools, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and delicious Chocolate Cola Cake.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake

Making James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is straightforward. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the cake tin

Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan)/340°F (300°F fan)/Gas Mark 3. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda together. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents any lumps in the batter.

3. Melt the butter and cola

In a saucepan, gently melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the cola and stir until combined. This mixture will form the liquid base for your batter.

4. Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract together. You can use an electric mixer for this step to ensure the ingredients are fully combined and slightly frothy.

5. Make the batter

Gradually add the melted cola and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Stir until everything is combined.

Then, fold in the sifted dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix gently until you have a smooth batter. It should be slightly runny – that’s perfect.

6. Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

7. Prepare the icing

While the cake is cooling, make the icing. In a saucepan, heat the double cream and butter over low heat until the butter is melted and the cream is warm.

Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate has melted and the icing is smooth and glossy. Add the vanilla extract and stir again.

8. Ice the cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate icing over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top and sides, allowing the icing to drip down the sides for a beautiful effect.

9. Serve and enjoy!

Let the icing set for a few minutes before slicing the cake. The cake is best enjoyed on the same day, but it will keep in an airtight container for a few days.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To perfect James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Use full-fat cola: For the best flavor and texture, make sure to use a full-fat cola, not a diet version. The sugar in regular cola helps create that moist texture and delicious taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, do so gently. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.
• Let the cake cool completely: Be patient and let your cake cool before applying the icing. This prevents the icing from melting into the cake and losing its glossy finish.
• Make it extra rich: For even more indulgence, try adding chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle extra chocolate sauce on top before serving.

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is a brilliant twist on the traditional chocolate cake. Its unique combination of cola and cocoa creates a soft, moist cake with a rich flavor profile that will impress anyone who tries it.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this cake is ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply craving something indulgent, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try it today and treat yourself to a slice of pure chocolate heaven!.

Simple Twists On James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake Recipe

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the unique twist of cola, resulting in a moist, decadent cake that’s truly one-of-a-kind. However, if you’re looking to add a personal touch or experiment with some variations, there are plenty of ways to make the cake even more exciting and tailored to your preferences.

1. Add a Hint of Coffee

   Coffee and chocolate are a classic pairing, and a subtle coffee flavor can elevate the richness of the cake. Simply add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cola mixture before adding it to the dry ingredients. This addition brings out the depth of the chocolate and provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cola.

2. Incorporate Orange Zest

   The combination of chocolate and orange is a timeless flavor duo. Adding a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the cake batter gives it a refreshing citrusy lift that complements the dense, moist texture of the cake. You can also drizzle some orange-flavored icing over the finished cake for an extra burst of flavor.

3. Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Milk Chocolate

   For a more intense chocolate experience, try swapping the milk chocolate with dark chocolate. This will give the cake a deeper, more sophisticated flavor profile, and the slight bitterness of the dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cola.

4. Add Chopped Nuts

   Adding texture to your chocolate cake can make each bite even more satisfying. Chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts can be mixed into the batter before baking, giving the cake a crunchy texture that balances the soft, moist crumb. Nuts also bring a wonderful earthy flavor that pairs well with chocolate.

5. Create a Layered Cake

   Instead of baking a single-layer cake, you could bake two layers and sandwich them with a luscious filling. Consider using a rich chocolate ganache or a tangy cream cheese frosting to complement the cake’s flavor. A layered cake not only looks impressive but offers more opportunities to infuse additional flavors and textures.

6. Incorporate Spices for a Warm, Cozy Flavor

   A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg added to the batter can warm up the flavor profile of the cake. The spices create a cozy, comforting feeling that works wonderfully with the moistness of the cake and the subtlety of the cola.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is a treat that keeps well, so if you have leftovers, don’t worry!

Here’s how to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and delicious for days:

1. Room Temperature Storage

   If you plan to eat the leftover cake within a couple of days, you can store it at room temperature. Simply place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

   Stored this way, the cake should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. The moistness from the cola keeps it from becoming stale quickly.

2. Refrigeration for Longer Shelf Life

   If you need to store the cake for a longer period, it’s best to refrigerate it. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

   The cool environment of the fridge helps preserve the texture and flavor of the cake, but it may become a little firmer when chilled. If this happens, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its softness.

3. Freezing for Extended Storage

   If you want to store the cake for an even longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect the cake from freezer burn.

   Alternatively, you can freeze the entire cake. When stored properly, the cake can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply leave it in the fridge overnight or let it come to room temperature for a few hours before serving.

What To Eat With James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake?

Chocolate Cola Cake is rich and indulgent, and pairing it with the right side dishes or beverages can elevate the experience to a whole new level. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside or with your slice of cake:

1. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

   A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic accompaniment to a chocolate cake. The creamy texture helps cut through the richness of the cake and adds a light, airy contrast. For a fun twist, try adding cinnamon ice cream, caramel swirl, or even a fruity flavor like strawberry or raspberry.

2. Fresh Berries

   The tartness of fresh berries, like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake. The slight acidity from the berries can cleanse the palate and provide a beautiful contrast to the chocolate and cola flavors.

3. Coffee or Espresso

   A strong cup of coffee or espresso is the perfect partner for this cake. The bitter notes of the coffee help to offset the cake’s sweetness, enhancing the chocolate’s deep flavors. It’s a great way to round out the dessert, especially if you’re enjoying the cake as part of a brunch or afternoon tea.

4. A Sweet Liqueur

   For an indulgent pairing, consider serving your cake with a dessert wine or a sweet liqueur. A glass of Port, Irish cream liqueur, or even a rich, dark rum can complement the chocolate cake’s flavor profile and bring out its complexity. This pairing works especially well if you’re serving the cake at a dinner party or special occasion.

5. Caramel Sauce

   If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over your slice of cake. The buttery sweetness of the caramel adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite even more decadent.

Conclusion

James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake is a decadent and versatile dessert that can be easily customized with a variety of flavors and textures. From adding spices and coffee to experimenting with nuts and citrus, the possibilities are endless.

Whether you’re storing leftovers or figuring out the perfect pairing, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich, moist texture and complex flavor profile, it’s the perfect treat to serve at any occasion, from a casual family gathering to an elegant dinner party.

FAQs

What Makes James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake Recipe Unique?

James Martin’s chocolate cola cake is distinctive due to the combination of cola, chocolate, and a rich, moist texture. The addition of cola enhances the cake’s depth of flavor, giving it a slight sweetness and a soft crumb.

Unlike traditional chocolate cakes, the cola also helps keep the cake moist and light. The recipe is easy to prepare and results in a decadent, indulgent dessert that pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Can I Use Any Type Of Cola For James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake?

Yes, you can use different types of cola for this recipe, but the classic version uses regular cola. Some people prefer to experiment with diet cola or flavored colas (like cherry cola) to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

However, the original recipe relies on the sweetness and carbonation of traditional cola to achieve the perfect balance with the chocolate. If you’re using a different type of cola, keep in mind it might slightly alter the cake’s taste or texture.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of James Martin’s Chocolate Cola Cake?

To store leftovers of James Martin’s chocolate cola cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake is best enjoyed fresh but will maintain its moist texture for a few days due to the cola.

If you want to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it, though it may become slightly denser. For longer storage, you can also freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then placed in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm, indulgent treat.